The long pruners are from ARS.

Unsure of birds and deer but it looks like bees like the bloom.

We're a little late, but just posted a follow up on what to expect to see in the spring here: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/mquIqZCTx8q6ZWw.html

Hey Nelson, thanks for the comment! Yes, every property is unique and sometimes mowing might not be the best method, however in many of our applications we find the best way to keep it under control is to turn any invaded area into lawn to keep mowing it. It certainly requires persistence, but over time this should really diminish the growth of the knotweed overall. I am curious to hear any methods you find best--please let me know!

@@berkshiregreenscapes Each joint on a knotweed stalk can grow a new plant so if you want to get rid altogether it’s best to keep it intact. Spray with herbicide in autumn and a couple of weeks later spot treat any leaves that are still green. Next year dig up and destroy any rhyzomes that sprout. Rinse and repeat until it stops coming back.

@@nforne yea everything I've read and been told is to not mow. Like mowing is almost never going to work. (I've tried) Herbicide after flowering, and again before freeze. (either spray or inject stems) and than dig up the ryhzomes that sprout, rinse and repeat just like you said

Thanks Michael, we’ll make a new one this spring. Stay tuned!